In a major advancement in educational leadership, Prof. Uma Kanjilal has been named Vice Chancellor of IGNOU, according to the official order issued on July 25, 2025. The order, issued by the President of India in her capacity as the Visitor of the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), is for 5 years or until she reaches the age of 70, whichever comes first. Prof. Kanjilal’s appointment follows Statute I of the IGNOU Act, 1985, and stands as a government-supported effort to ensure experienced leadership in Indian higher education.
The academic and institutional experience Prof. Kanjilal brings as she takes charge and the implications it will have on IGNOU’s growth in online and distance education, she is expected to lead the way to greater global reach, improved digital infrastructure, and policies focusing on students that are vital to a university that has over 4 million students. The new Vice Chancellor takes office at a moment in time where digital transformation, accessibility, and innovation are leading the way for a more open and accessible future in education.
The Future of IGNOU Under New Leadership
Prof. Uma Kanjilal will lead opportunities for the enhancement of digital pedagogy and global academic partnerships at IGNOU. As one of the largest open universities in the world, the transitory period in leadership is consequential, not only for India but for the global higher education landscape. Furthermore, Prof. Kanjilal’s deep expertise in e-learning and digital education make her an inspired choice that embodies the visionary character of IGNOU’s mission to help democratize education through technology. Therefore, her appointment represents a deliberate and constructive directional shift towards large-scale ethically inclusive learning.
The administration at IGNOU are now looking for students, faculty, and stakeholders to be hopeful in progressive reforms at the university level. This includes a renewed emphasis on research, innovation and excellence. The official office order (Order No. 395) by Dr. Alok Chaube (Registrar) issued for her new role on 10 February 2020, illustrates not just the leadership changes to governance agendas: but that IGNOU is determined to provide new leadership and opportunities for higher education.
